G Lou Williams is a first-time starter taking over for veteran Andre Miller, who left via free agency. He has to involve his teammates more and defend better as the point after serving as a shoot-first sixth man for the past two years.

G Andre Iguodala is moving over from forward and being anointed as the Sixers' best player by coach Eddie Jordan. He will have some ball-handling responsibilities, but is being counted on in virtually every facet of the game.

F Thaddeus Young is an unselfish young player with quickness, athleticism and a great attitude. He could become a star if he rebounds better, keeps upgrading his jumper and improves his ball-handling.

F Elton Brand is being aggressive with the ball in the preseason in an effort to again be a 20-point scorer. Can he set up his teammates, too, help out by playing some center and stay healthy?

C Samuel Dalembert, who was unhappy and asked to be dealt prior to last February's trade deadline, is touching the ball more on offense than he had in previous seasons. Still, his primary role is to rebound, defend and block shots.

ANALYZING KEY RESERVES:

G Willie Green is expected to be the backup point after three years as the primary starter at shooting guard. He is capable of scoring, though his shooting tends to be streaky.

F/G Jason Kapono is the Sixers' best perimeter shooter who can stretch the floor and help guys like Brand get better looks. He should be on the floor for key late-game offensive possessions.

C/F Marreese Speights isn't afraid to shoot the ball from 19 feet and in, and is being encouraged to do so.

C/F Jason Smith is the second big man off the bench as he tries to come back from missing the entire 2008-09 season with a torn ACL.

MEDICAL WATCH:

G/F Rodney Carney (strained left hamstring) missed two preseason games, but should be ready by the Oct. 28 season opener in Orlando.